Algebra solver with full step-by-step working
Enter any linear equation, quadratic, or inequality and SolveStep will isolate the variable, combine like terms, and show every step it takes to get there — including a factored form and a final check.
Part of SolveStep's free math solver, alongside dedicated tools for geometry, statistics, matrices, and calculus.
Every step of algebraic manipulation
Algebra is really just a small set of legal moves applied consistently: combine like terms, move terms across the equals sign, and divide to isolate the variable. SolveStep applies those same moves and narrates each one, so you can see exactly why the equation simplifies the way it does.
It handles single-variable linear equations of any complexity, distributed parentheses like 3(x + 2), variables on both sides, and quadratic equations solved via the quadratic formula.
Linear equations
ax + b = c
Isolates x by moving constants and dividing by the coefficient.
Variables on both sides
5x - 3 = 3x + 9
Collects x-terms on one side before isolating.
Quadratic equations
ax² + bx + c = 0
Uses the discriminant and quadratic formula to find real or complex roots, then factors and verifies rational ones automatically.
Linear inequalities New
3x - 2 ≤ x + 4
Isolates x the same way as an equation, flips the sign when dividing by a negative, and states the answer in interval notation.
Two problems, solved in full
Variables on both sides
5x − 3 = 3x + 9- Move the x-terms to one side: subtract 3x from both sides to get 2x − 3 = 9.
- Move the constant: add 3 to both sides to get 2x = 12.
- Divide both sides by 2 to isolate x.
- Check: substitute x back into both original sides — they should match.
A factorable quadratic
x² − 5x + 6 = 0- Identify a = 1, b = -5, c = 6 in standard form.
- Compute the discriminant: Δ = (-5)² − 4(1)(6) = 1 — a perfect square, so the roots will be rational.
- Apply the quadratic formula: x = (5 ± 1) / 2.
- Recognize the factored form (x − 3)(x − 2) — often faster to spot by eye next time.
Algebra solver FAQ
Does it show work, or just the final answer?
Every solve returns a numbered list of steps — the same moves you'd write on paper, in the same order — plus a final check that substitutes the answer back into the original equation.
Can it handle parentheses and distribution?
Yes. Expressions like 3(x + 2) are expanded automatically as part of solving.
What if my equation has no solution?
SolveStep will tell you directly — either "no solution" for a contradiction, or "infinite solutions" for an identity like 2x + 2 = 2x + 2.
Can it solve inequalities as well as equations?
Yes. Type a linear inequality with <, >, <=, or >= — SolveStep isolates x, flips the sign when it divides by a negative number, and gives the answer in interval notation.
Does the algebra solver factor quadratics?
When a quadratic's roots are rational, SolveStep shows the factored form alongside the quadratic-formula solution, then verifies both roots by substitution.
Is this the same as a regular algebra math solver app?
It does the same job as an algebra math solver app, minus the app: no install, no account, and every step stays in your browser instead of being uploaded anywhere.